GOP congressional baseball team practices for first time since 2017 shooting

by JOHN GONZALEZ, ABC7 News

Members of the congressional GOP baseball team practice in Alexandria, Va., Wednesday, April 25, 2018. (WJLA)

ALEXANDRIA, Va. (WJLA) - It was not only the first practice, but such an important, symbolic practice that it went on, rain or shine.

The lights were switched on at the ball field and GOP lawmakers laced up their cleats Wednesday. For many, it was their first time back on the field at Eugene Simpson Stadium Park since the shooting 10 months ago.

This year security for the practice was beefed up. U.S. Capitol Police said they deployed a robust police and security presence Wednesday morning. In fact, a mandatory security sweep of all media was even carried out.

It is much different than what the event used to entail as lawmakers prepare for the annual Congressional Baseball Game for charity. Rep. Steve Scalise, R-La., is still recovering from the wounds he suffered during the attack. Four others were also wounded.

Scalise underwent yet another surgery this week and more procedures are expected later this year. The practice started at 6:30 a.m. and was followed by a press conference that included a letter from Scalise.

Just days ago, the officers and medics who first responded last June were honored with medals for valor in Alexandria.